Core Viewpoint - Zscaler, Inc. is a leading player in the cybersecurity sector, but its high price-to-sales (P/S) multiple of 15.56X raises concerns about its valuation amid slowing growth rates [1][6]. Financial Performance - In Q3 FY25, Zscaler reported a year-over-year revenue growth of 22.6%, a decline from the 30% range in FY24 and 40% in FY23 [3][4]. - The revenue growth forecast for FY25 is expected to be around 22.7%, indicating a continued slowdown [4]. - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Zscaler's FY25 earnings suggests a year-over-year decline of 0.31% [7]. Competitive Landscape - Zscaler faces increasing competition from established cybersecurity firms such as Palo Alto Networks, CyberArk, and CrowdStrike, which are investing heavily in innovative cybersecurity solutions [5][6]. - The company must maintain high spending on R&D to stay competitive and innovate in the market [5][6]. Growth Initiatives - Zscaler's New Growth Categories, which include Zero Trust Everywhere and Agentic Operations, reached approximately $1 billion in annual recurring revenues (ARR) [10]. - The company has successfully implemented its Zero Trust Exchange, gaining over 210 adoptions and achieving 60% quarter-over-quarter growth in Q3 FY25 [9]. - Zscaler's total ARR reached $2.9 billion in Q3 FY25 [10]. Strategic Partnerships and Innovations - Zscaler has launched new solutions like Asset Exposure Management and partnered with SAP to integrate its services within SAP's RISE framework [11]. - The company is enhancing its offerings with AI technologies through partnerships with NVIDIA and CrowdStrike [12]. Government Sector Expansion - Zscaler is expanding its GovCloud solutions and has enabled numerous government agencies to utilize its products, serving 14 out of 15 U.S. cabinet-level agencies [14][15]. - The inclusion in Amazon Web Services' Internet Control Message Protocol enhances Zscaler's accessibility to U.S. federal agencies [15]. Market Performance - Zscaler's share price has surged 74% year-to-date, outperforming the Zacks Security Industry and its peers [16].

Core Insights - Zscaler, Inc. (ZS) shares have increased by 46% over the past three months, significantly outperforming the Zacks Security industry's return of 10.7% and its peers like CyberArk Software, Palo Alto Networks, and CrowdStrike [1][7] Company Growth and Developments - Zscaler has launched the Asset Exposure Management solution to improve asset risk management and partnered with SAP to integrate its Zero Trust Network Access service within SAP's RISE framework, facilitating cloud migrations and compliance with regulations [2] - The company has expanded its capabilities through the acquisition of Red Canary, enhancing its Managed Detection and Response solutions to address rising cyber threats [3] - Zscaler is integrating artificial intelligence into its products by partnering with NVIDIA and CrowdStrike, enhancing its Zero Trust Security model with advanced AI technologies [4] Financial Performance - In Q3 of fiscal 2025, Zscaler achieved a 12-month trailing dollar-based retention rate of 114%, driven by larger bundle sales and robust upsells [5] - Remaining Performance Obligations increased by 30% year-over-year, with 642 customers generating $1 million or more in annual recurring revenues (ARR) and 3,363 customers with ARR exceeding $100,000 [8] Government Sector Expansion - Zscaler is enhancing its GovCloud solutions to comply with government security standards, serving 14 out of 15 U.S. cabinet-level agencies, which could provide a stable growth stream [9][10] Competitive Landscape - Zscaler faces intense competition from established cybersecurity players like Palo Alto Networks, CyberArk, and CrowdStrike, particularly in its Internet Access and Private Access offerings [11] - The company is investing heavily in sales and marketing to broaden its capabilities, which may impact near-term profitability [12] Earnings Outlook - Zscaler expects non-GAAP earnings per share for fiscal 2025 to be in the range of $3.18-$3.19, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate at $3.06, reflecting a 4% year-over-year decline [13] Valuation Concerns - Zscaler holds a premium valuation with a Forward 12-month P/S ratio of 13.92X, significantly higher than the sector average of 5.54X, indicating potential valuation concerns [15] Investment Recommendation - Despite challenges related to rising costs and premium valuation, Zscaler's investments in AI, innovative cybersecurity capabilities, and strong customer retention make the stock worth holding for now [16]